Design 2 Fabrication

This page will go over the steps to create Design 2 of the PDS.

Step 1:

Begin by printing the .STL of the mold found on the Downloads page. Supports are not necessary for the print.

Step 2:

Measure out 25ml of Part A and Part B of the Ecoflex 00-30. Put both parts in a cup and mix together thoroughly with a spoon.

Step 3:

Pour the mixed Ecoflex into the mold slowly and steadily and stop occasionally to let bubbles escape. Fill the mold to the brim. Let the silicone cure for 4 hours.

Step 4:

Once the Ecoflex has cured, carefully pull the cast out of the mold. Wiggling the cast back and forth helps to remove it.

Step 5:

Follow the Fabrication guide for the PneuNets Bending Actuator up to "Remove main body from molds" in Step 3.

Step 6:

Mix a very small amount of more Ecoflex. Spread a very thin layer (1mm) of it on the flat side of the PDS. Place the cast of the actuator on top of it carefully. Let the silicone cure for 4 hours.

Step 7:

Connect one length of the 1/8" tubing to the Luer fitting. Puncture the end of actuator that is at the same end as the opening of the sensor with a screwdriver. Insert the end of the Luer fitting into the hole. Put one zip-tie around this part of the actuator and the sensor and tighten it only slightly, so that it is held in place. Insert the other length of tubing into the opening of the sensor. Put a zip-tie around this part and tighten.

Step 8:

Connect the tubing from the actuator to the air source (syringe, air compressor, squeeze bulb) and connect the tubing from the sensor to the electronics.

Instructions on how to operate Design 2 can be found in the Testing section.